Attorney Richard Stim specializes in small business, copyright, patents, and trademark issues at Nolo. He is the author of many books, including Music Law: How to Run Your Band's Business Patent, Copyright & Trademark: An Intellectual Property Desk Reference, and Profit From Your Idea. Stim regularly answers readers' intellectual property questions at Dear Rich: Nolo's Patent, Copyright & Trademark Blog.
Articles By Richard Stim
Breach of Contract: Anticipatory Breach (Repudiation)
When one party to a contract indicates--either through words or actions--that it's not going to perform its contract obligations, the other party can immediately claim a breach of contract. This is sometimes called an anticipatory repudiation (or breach) of contract.
Patent Drawings: How to Draw Your Own
Patent applicants are required to submit patent drawings when such drawings are necessary to understanding the invention. Can these drawings be done yourself, or must you hire a professional service?
How to Protect Your Invention From Theft When Pitching It
You want to show your invention to potential manufacturers distributors. But how can you do so without risking your intellectual property?
Fair Use: What Is Transformative?
In determining fair use, what makes the use of a copyrighted work "transformative"?
Fair Use: The 4 Factors Courts Consider in a Copyright Infringement Case
How is fair use determined? A court weighs four factors to make its decision.
What Rights the First Sale Doctrine Gives to a Purchaser of a Copyrighted Work
Every day, millions of consumers make use of the first sale doctrine, to destroy authorized copies of copyrighted works.
Will a Noncompete Agreement Stop Employees From Taking Your Trade Secrets?
To avoid losing valuable employees (and trade secrets) to competitors, many employers require employees to sign noncompetition agreements.
Licensing Artwork: Negotiating and Monitoring Royalty Payments
For an artist who successfully licenses artwork, royalty payments provide welcome additional income. But in order to maximize profits, an artist should take the time to negotiate a smart royalty deal.
Consideration: Every Contract Needs It
Under basic principles of contract law, consideration is the answer to the question, "Why are you entering this contract?" or "What are you receiving for being a party to this contract?" In order for any agreement to be deemed legally binding, it must include consideration on the part of every person or company that enters the contract. This article covers the basics of the consideration requirement, including real-world examples of consideration.
How to Negotiate a Business Contract: Strategies and Tips
Usually before you reach a business agreement, you'll need to negotiate. That is, sit down at the proverbial table -- with the other people or companies that are "parties" to the agreement -- and hammer out the details of the contract. If you're new at the game, or need a refresher, it's a good idea to review some of the tried-and-true negotiation strategies.